How to Remove Socket Chisel Handles

Socket chisel handles come off with little effort.

Woodworkers and carvers distinguish the two types of wood chisels they use by the way the handle is attached to the working part of the chisel. The end of the metal opposite the working end of a tang chisel is beveled and wedges into the handle, while the corresponding end of a socket chisel is square and fits into a socket in the handle. While it is difficult to remove the handle from a tang chisel, a socket chisel handle comes right off after you remove the retaining ring at the base.

Things You'll Need

• Vise
• Slot screwdriver
• Hammer
• Pliers

Instructions

1. Place the metal shaft of the chisel in a vice with the handle facing up and tighten the vise.

2. Wedge the end of a slot screwdriver against the edge of the metal sleeve located at the base of the handle, next to the metal, and tap the screwdriver lightly with a hammer. The sleeve should pop away from the handle.

3. Remove the chisel from the vise. While holding the metal shaft with one hand, tap the handle against a hard surface. When it loosens, pull it off with the other hand.

4. Put the chisel back in the vise and work the handle off with a pair of pliers, if it doesn't pop loose. It may have been glued. Turn it first one way and then the other until the glue bond breaks. When it is loose, pull it off with the pliers.

Tips & Warnings

• Socket chisel handles are designed to come off easily so they can be replaced frequently. Some models don't have a retaining sleeve, which makes the handle even easier to remove.

• If your chisel handle is loose, hold the chisel upright and tap the end of the handle against a hard surface to tighten it before using the chisel.

• The blade of a chisel is sharp enough to cut you. Keep your hand away from the working end when you hold it.

References

• Lie Nielsen Toolworks: Bevel Edge Socket Chisels
• Pegs and 'Tails: Refurbishing an Old Stanley Socket Chisel